Chelsea Leading the Race for Napoli Right-Back

The 2017/18 Premier League season is nearing its climax and after a weak title defence from Chelsea, it seems as though they are looking to strengthen their side in an attempt to reclaim their crown. The Blues’ slim chance of making the Champions League might make it harder for them to attract new players.

However, the champions are reportedly leading fellow English sides Liverpool and Manchester United to the signing of Elseid Hysaj. The Napoli right-back has been on the radar of some of Europe’s top sides for a few years now and this summer looks like the one where he will secure a big money move away from Naples.

Of the interested clubs, Chelsea are allegedly the only ones to have held talks with the player’s agent and are considerably ahead of their rivals in the race to sign Hysaj. It would be much more likely for the Albanian to be a regular starter at Stamford Bridge than for Liverpool or Man United.

Antonio Valencia is an ever-present for the Red Devils and his impact on the team is irreplaceable, while Trent Alexander-Arnold has been fantastic for Jurgen Klopp’s side this term. Amidst uncertainty as to whether Victor Moses is first-choice right-back ahead of Davide Zappacosta at Chelsea, it seems as though a right-sided defender is top of their shopping list.

It is very rare that a full-back is capable on both wings and with Faouzi Ghoulam’s injury, Hysaj has featured at left-back on six occasions this season in Napoli’s title challenge. For this reason, he won’t come cheap and his €50 million release clause seems like the only way to prise him away from the potential Serie A winners.

It may seem harsh on Victor Moses that he could be replaced this summer, but the former Wigan man’s performances haven’t been good enough during this campaign. Elseid Hysaj would be a marked improvement at right-back but with rumours of the West London club having a lower transfer budget, it might be wiser to invest the money elsewhere.